Dallas schools to require masks in defiance of Gov. Abbott's order

• The announcement follows the latest guidance issued by the CDC recommending universal indoor masking for all teachers, staff, students and visitors to K-12 schools this incoming school year, regardless of vaccination status.
• Abbott initially balked at the recommendation, saying the time for mandating masks is over and "now is the time for personal responsibility."

Driving the news: Dallas County is classified as "high risk" for community transmission, according to the CDC.

• Dallas County health officials have reported that hospitalizations are climbing at the fastest rate since the pandemic began, among all age groups, Dallas ISD said.

What they're saying: "We’re in a situation that has gotten significantly more urgent," superintendent Michael Hinojosa said in a press conference Monday.

• “Requiring masks for staff and students while on district property is a reasonable and necessary safety protocol to protect against the spread of COVID-19 and the new Delta variant," said Ben Mackey, Dallas ISD's board president, per the Dallas Morning News.
• The district added that "students under 12 are not eligible for a vaccine, however, school attendance is mandatory, and virtual learning is not an option at this time."
• The Dallas ISD mandate is set to take effect on Tuesday.